Liam Hemsworth's Top Australia Travel Tips

It's no secret that Liam Hemsworth is Australian (his brother, Chris, famously promoted tourism there in a Crocodile Dundee spoof that became the most-loved ad of this year's Super Bowl). But though Liam is a Melbourne native, he's passionate about, well, the entire country—and for good reason.

At a recent event for the newly opened W Brisbane, Hemsworth talked about why the city has become one of Oz's hottest new destinations. (Notably, the W Brisbane, a 312-room hotel overlooking the river, marks the return of W Hotels Worldwide, to Australia on the whole.) We didn't just talk Australia travel, either: Since Hemsworth's career keeps him on the road plenty, he's got suggestions on how to stay sane in-flight—and for staving off jet lag.

Read on for his travel tips, the most interesting seatmate he ever had, and why home is the destination at the top of his list.

You're here to celebrate the opening of the W Brisbane. Brisbane is a city we keep hearing about for places to visit next. Why do you think that is, and why now?

I think like most places in Australia, cities in particular, they continue to grow and become more interesting and inviting to tourists. Brisbane has definitely grown a lot over the last few years, with more and more great hotels and restaurants popping up. There’s definitely some excitement for the new W hotel, too.

What's your favorite restaurant in Brisbane for a low-key dinner with friends?

Too many to choose from!

You're originally from Melbourne. Where do you recommend friends stay when they go there?

Melbourne has so many great hotels to stay at. My favorites are situated along the Yarra River in Southbank. It’s a perfect central place to base yourself, with so much to do in walking distance. I think location is always key to a great hotel.